Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery

The experienced surgeons specializing in reconstructive surgery of the face, head, and neck at UT Southwestern M­­­edical Center are committed to delivering compassionate, transformative care to patients of all ages and to advancing the field through innovative research.

Compassionate, Expert Treatment

People who have undergone surgery to treat head and neck cancer – as well as those with deformities and those who have suffered burns and trauma – might opt for reconstructive surgery of the head and/or neck to improve their functional abilities and/or appearance.

UT Southwestern’s head and neck reconstructive surgeons are specially trained in the most sophisticated and precise techniques, including microsurgery, tissue substitutes, and the latest in wound care. Our team includes surgeons who are board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 

When treating cancer patients, we partner with the head and neck cancer specialists at UT Southwestern’s Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center – the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in North Texas – to help patients make the most informed decisions for reconstruction.  

Optimizing Function and Appearance

As with all types of reconstructive surgery, the goal of head and neck reconstruction is to restore and/or maximize patients’ function and appearance. Because the head and neck are vital to eating, breathing, blood flow, and communication – and due to the visibility of these areas – reconstructive surgery has unique challenges and goals. 

To ensure the best outcomes, our head and neck reconstructive surgeons work closely with patients to help them choose the most appropriate surgical options based on their individual goals, preferences, and fitness for major surgery.

Types of Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgeries

There are a number of advanced surgeries that can be used to reconstruct areas of the head and neck. UT Southwestern offers procedures that include: 

• Free tissue transfer and microvascular anastomosis
  
• Local flap reconstruction
  
• Reanimation of the paralyzed face
  
• Reconstruction of the jaw and facial bones
  
• Reconstruction of the nose, mouth, and ears
  
• Skull-base surgery
  
• Skin grafting
  
• Tissue replacement